ASEAN Committee in Canberra met with the Minister for Home Affairs

On 27 October 2021, HE Ms Busadee Santipitaks, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand, joined the ASEAN Committee in Canberra (ACC), led by HE Mr Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ambassador of Viet Nam and ACC Chair (July-December 2021) in a virtual meeting with The Honourable Karen Andrews, Minister for Home Affairs.  Both sides appreciated the longstanding ASEAN-Australia relations, reflected in efforts to elevate the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership – which have recently been elevated on 27 October 2021.  They also discussed issues of mutual interest including the opportunities following easing of border restrictions and international travel, including return of international students from ASEAN countries and the importance of social cohesion within the Australian community as well as the importance of enhancing cooperation in transnational and non-traditional security matters such as counter terrorism and human trafficking.

Ambassador Busadee also cited the success of Ms Anchilee Scott-Kemmis, a Thai-Australian who was recently crowned as Miss Universe Thailand 2021.  This is exemplary of a Thai individual who has gained the education, experience and knowledge in Australia and can contribute positively to the international society.